November 14, 2012

Looking Back



Looking Back
by John R. Greenwood

Looking back, life has been good. I have been more fortunate than most--except for that split second back in 1974 when I stuck my hand in a hungry machine. I have paid closer attention since. I did lose a little bit of my mind in the 1980's, but anyone who has lived through teenage boys is in the same boat. I have never been unemployed for more than a phone call. My wife and I have been holding hands since James Taylor sang his first song at SPAC. I have friends who don't borrow money and a pickup that might be paid off before 2016--the year we elect a female president. I have filed just one claim on my homeowners policy since 1975. The wind was stronger than our awning. The check was for $800--a fortune when your kids are in kindergarten and diapers, and your car's a 1972 Ford Pinto. I have enjoyed swimming in spring fed lakes, country streams, and indoor pools. I have climbed Adirondack mountains, maple trees, and corporate step stools. I can sing when no one's listening and play an instrument in my dreams. I saved a life once. I swerved like the first Earnhardt --the squirrel swerved like the second one. My home is a man-owner but only for a few more decades. I don't take any prescriptions unless my throat is white and my ears are red. I can still run like a ox and I'm as strong as a deer. My mind remains sharp. I don't ever get lost, confused or order 9 cut pizzas. I love my country and the country. I love eating and seconds. I love writing, rambling, and grumbling. If I had it to do over again, I would. 

9 comments:

  1. That was quite fun....reminds me of John Corbett's song "Good to Go".
    Diane

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    1. Mrs G. loved that show that he used to be in. You know the one I'm thinking about? I had to google the name, sorry. Great song!

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  2. Yeah, but here's the question:
    You have three trips in the time machine. So what moments in your life would you go back to, right now---and why?

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    1. Sunday, I would go back to Sunday. One more by-week for my Redskins and I collected $500 on a Take Five Quick Pick. Yes Sunday it is, I've thought about in great depth. I will save the other two for some future date when the nurses whisper, "He's CTD, let's get coffee." I will return twice.

      *Circling The Drain

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  3. Thought and emotion provoking post. Good work.

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  4. What a well written appraisal of self. I can tell you are a forward looking positive man. What a pleasure it was to read your post this morning - as I sit here on a sunny day in KY.

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